Drivers License for returning emmigrants.

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beffers

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What is the drivers license situation for those returning to Ireland, when they have lived in the US for years, and only have a US drivers license? When on holiday in Ireland I was able to rent a car with my US license no problem, but to buy one I presume that I would have to have an Irish one, right?

I have never had an Irish drivers license. Can I automatically get one if I have a valid license from another country, or do I have to get a provisional license, take lessons and pass a driving test etc etc before I can get one? Thanks for any advice.
 
As long as it's less than 10 years since their last Irish license expired they will be able to get a new one.
 
OP stated that they never had an Irish license; but correct if they are asking on behalf of someone else.
 
No, have never had an Irish DL, was asking for myself & a cousin who is in the same situation.

Thanks for that link Windup, very helpful. According to the site I can drive on my current US license or on an international one for up to a year. Then I have to get an Irish one.


Holders of driving licences from other countries
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If you are not from any of the above countries, (for example, if you are from Canada, the United States or New Zealand), and you hold a national driving licence or an international driving permit from your own country, you may drive in Ireland for the duration of your temporary visit (up to 12 months).
If your stay in Ireland will be more than 12 months you can apply for an Irish driving licence but you will need to go through the full driver licensing procedure. You must first complete a driver theory test, apply for a learner driving permit and complete your driving test in Ireland. If you pass your driving test, you will be issued with a full Irish driving licence.
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As I am only going to be living there for a year or so, that works out perfectly. I presume that during that year, I can not buy a car with a US or international license, or can I? Thanks again.
 
I presume that during that year, I can not buy a car with a US or international license, or can I? Thanks again.[/QUOTE]

No problem buying a car, but you may encounter some problems insuring it on a non EU licence.
 
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